An Excerpt on Justice from the Confession of Belhar
Friends, you are invited to take some time to read and reflect on each confessional point today. Perhaps read them aloud as a prayer of declaration to the Lord and ask Him to use your life, your gifts, time and treasure to serve as an agent of Kingdom justice.
We believe
that God has revealed himself as the one who wishes to bring about justice and true peace among people;
that God, in a world full of injustice and enmity, is in a special way the God of the destitute, the poor and the wronged; 3
that God calls the church to follow him in this, for God brings justice to the oppressed and gives bread to the hungry;
that God frees the prisoner and restores sight to the blind;
that God supports the downtrodden, protects the stranger, helps orphans and widows and blocks the path of the ungodly;
that for God pure and undefiled religion is to visit the orphans and the widows in their suffering;
that God wishes to teach the church to do what is good and to seek the right (Deut. 32:4; Luke 2:14; John 14:27; Eph. 2:14; Isa. 1:16-17; James 1:27; James 5:1-6; Luke 1:46-55; Luke 6:20-26; Luke 7:22; Luke 16:19-31; Ps. 146; Luke 4:16-19; Rom. 6:13-18; Amos 5);
that the church must therefore stand by people in any form of suffering and need, which implies, among other things, that the church must witness against and strive against any form of injustice, so that justice may roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream;
that the church as the possession of God must stand where the Lord stands, namely against injustice and with the wronged; that in following Christ the church must witness against all the powerful and privileged who selfishly seek their own interests and thus control and harm others.
Therefore, we reject any ideology
which would legitimate forms of injustice and any doctrine which is unwilling to resist such an ideology in the name of the gospel.
Synod 2017 adopted the Belhar Confession as a contemporary testimony for the Christian Reformed Church. It is a beautiful statement of unity in Christ and His Kingdom. To read the entire document click this link.
Please take the time to watch this video update from Pastor Jaleesa and Brendan Stanford. Brendan is deploying with the United States Army later this week for the next year. In this short video they share some of what this next year holds and ways you can pray for them in this time. We are grateful for his service!
*The link above will be part of the sermon. If you’d like to print it out ahead of beginning to move through the At Home Liturgy, then please do so. It will be included in the Sermon section of the Liturgy so printing it out is not required to participate.
Call to Worship:
The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him.
Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:
From Psalm 20:6-8
6 Now this I know:
The Lord gives victory to his anointed.
He answers him from his heavenly sanctuary
with the victorious power of his right hand.
7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
8 They are brought to their knees and fall,
but we rise up and stand firm.
9 Lord, give victory to the king!
Answer us when we call!
Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.
Worshiping in Song:
You can access the video of each song by clicking on the video. Participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song.
Your Love Never Fails
Nothing can separate
Even if I ran away
Your love never fails
I know I still make mistakes
But You have new mercies for me everyday
Your love never fails
You stay the same through the ages
Your love never changes
And may be pain in the night
But joy comes in the morning
And when the oceans rage
I don’t have to be afraid
Because I know that You love me
Your love never fails
The wind is strong and the water’s deep
I’m not alone in these open seas
‘Cause Your love never fails
The chasm is far too wide
I never thought I’d reach the other side
‘Cause Your love never fails
‘Cause you stay the same through the ages
Your love never changes
There may be pain in the night
But joy comes in the morning
And when the oceans rage
I don’t have to be afraid
Because I know that You love me
Oh no, love never fails
‘Cause You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
‘Cause you stay
‘Cause you stay the same through the ages
Your love never changes
It may be pain in the night
But joy comes in the morning
And when the oceans rage
I don’t have to be afraid
Because I know that You love me
Love never fails
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make, you make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
You make all things work together for my good
‘Cause You make all things work together for my good
‘Cause you stay the same through the ages
Your love never changes
It may be pain in the night
But joy comes in the morning
And when the oceans rage
I don’t have to be afraid
Because I know that You love me
Never fails
The Lord’s Greeting:
The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all. Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:
From 2 John 1:3:
Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.
Greeting One Another:
It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump:
“The peace of the Lord be with you.” (Or if alone, say aloud: The peace of the Lord be with me.”)
The Saving One
What mercy was revealed
What selflessness and peace
My fate was surely sealed
Until He rescued me
His pardon for my sin
His bounty for my need
From slavery and shame
I am redeemed
And Heaven can’t contain
The glory of the Son
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
His love has made a way
The grave is overcome
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
No fear can hold me down
Nor darkness steal my joy
For blood has been poured out
The enemy destroyed
Death could not hold Him down
The cross was not enough
To steal away His throne
For He is God
And Heaven can’t contain
The glory of the Son
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
His love has made a way
The grave is overcome
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
Anyone who calls upon His name
They will be saved
They will be saved
Anyone who calls upon His name
They will be saved
They will be saved
And Heaven can’t contain
The glory of the Son
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One
His love has made a way
The grave is overcome
Jesus is the Christ, the saving One (x2)
Anyone who calls upon His name
They will be saved
They will be saved
Anyone who calls upon His name
They will be saved
They will be saved
To Our God
Up from the ashes Your love has brought us
Out of the darkness into the light
Lifting our sorrows
Bearing our burdens healing our hearts
To our God we lift up one voice
To our God we lift up one song
To our God we lift up one voice
Singing Hallelujah
[x2]
Chains have been broken eyes have been opened
An army of dry bones is starting to rise
Death is defeated
We are victorious for You are alive
To our God we lift up one voice
To our God we lift up one song
To our God we lift up one voice
Singing Hallelujah
[x2]
Hallelujah
Singing Hallelujah
[repeat]
We’ll make His praise glorious glorious, glorious
For His name is glorious, glorious, glorious
Make His praise glorious, glorious, glorious
Shout His name Glorious, Glorious, Glorious
To our God we lift up one voice
To our God we lift up one song
To our God we lift up one voice
Singing Hallelujah
[x2]
We’ll make His praise glorious glorious, glorious
For His name is glorious, glorious, glorious
Make His praise glorious, glorious, glorious
Shout His name Glorious, Glorious, Glorious
[repeat]
Way Maker
You are here
Moving in our midst
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Working in this place
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Moving in our midst
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Working in this place
I worship you
I worship you
Way maker
Miracle worker
Promise keeper
Light in the darkness
My God
That is who you are
Way maker
Miracle worker
Promise keeper
Light in the darkness
My God
That is who you are
You are here
Touching every heart
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Healing every heart
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Turning lives around
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Mending every heart
I worship you
I worship you
Way maker
Miracle worker
Promise keeper
Light in the darkness
That is who you are
Way maker
Miracle worker
Promise keeper
Light in the darkness
My God
That is who you are
You wipe away all tears
You mend the broken heart
You’re the answer to it all
Jesus
You wipe away all tears
You mend the broken heart
You’re the answer to it all (to it all)
Jesus
Way maker
Miracle worker
Promise keeper
Light in the darkness
My God
That is who you are
Way maker
Miracle worker
Promise keeper
Light in the darkness
My God
That is who you are
You are here
Touching every life
I worship you
I worship you
You are here
Meeting every need
I worship you
I worship you
Testimony/Family Prayer Time:
As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to?
Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.
For Family Prayer Time: Please utilize and add to this prayer guide and also take time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads.
Song of Preparation:
The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us.
Ways to give (Click the picture for more giving options):
TEXT– send amount to (616) 319-2259 and follow prompts to give securely
Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church at 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504
As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.
Even So Come
All of creation
All of the earth
Make straight a highway
A path for the Lord
Jesus is coming soon
Call back the sinner
Wake up the saint
Let every nation
Shout of Your fame
Jesus is coming soon
Like a bride
Waiting for her groom
We’ll be a church
Ready for You
Every heart longing for our King
We sing
Even so come
Lord Jesus come
There will be justice
All will be new
Your name forever
Faithful and true
Jesus is coming soon
Like a bride
Waiting for her groom
We’ll be a church
Ready for You
Every heart longing for our King
We sing
Even so come
Lord Jesus come
Even so come
Lord Jesus come
So we wait
We wait for You
God we wait
You’re coming soon
So we wait
We wait for You
God we wait
You’re coming soon
Like a bride
Waiting for her groom
We’ll be a church
Ready for You
Every heart longing for our King
We sing
Like a bride
Waiting for her groom
We’ll be a church
(We’ll be) Ready for You
Every heart longing for our King
We sing
Even so come
Lord Jesus come
Even so come
Lord Jesus come
Even so come
Lord Jesus come
Even so come
Lord Jesus come
The Preaching of the Word:
This week the sermon is broken up into two parts with Bible Study activities and questions in between. You’re welcome to view the Bible Study materials below, but we strongly encourage you, if you have a printer, to download them here and make notes as you go.
This is a word study of the Hebrew word mishpat translated in English most often as “justice”. God is the source of mishpat. Mishpat is the order of compassionate justice that God has created and on which the whole universe depends. Mishpat is a proper judgement, process, ordinance, decision or proper and fitting plan. Kingdom justice is consistent with the character of God. Kingdom justice is a righteous world order and always points to God.
Please look up and read the following Bible passages, recording a few words about what each scripture says about justice. You can split up the sections among the people you are worshipping with or take your time and do this alone. If you do it as a group, have each person read their verse and share what you learned with one another. Depending on your available time, you may wish to do some of this now and come back to finish it later.
Characteristics of God’s Justice
Genesis 18:25Right
Psalm 89:14Foundation of God’s Throne
Deuteronomy 24:17-21Generosity for those who can’t care for themselves:
Foreigner and orphan
Psalm 112:5
Psalm 9:16
Ezekiel 34:16
Micah 3:8
Part of Covenant Blessings & Curses when Israel Entered Promised Land
Deuteronomy 27:19
Deuteronomy 30:16
More Blessings:
1 Kings 2:3
Psalm 106:3
Scope of God’s Justice
Numbers 9:14Nationals and Foreigners
Deuteronomy 1:17Impacts all matters
Exodus 23:6Lawsuits
Proverbs 16:8
Proverbs 29:4
Jeremiah 22:3Sanctity of Life
Amos 5:15
Malachi 3:5
Isaiah 58:6-7Care of Family Members
How God Feels About Justice
Isaiah 61:8
Micah 6:8
When We Act Justly
Deuteronomy 11:1We show our love for God
2 Chronicles 19:6We act on behalf of God who is watching
Proverbs 21:3
Proverbs 21:15
Zephaniah 2:3
God’s Activity in Justice
Psalm 25:9God guides humble in right (just) way
Psalm 103:6
Psalm 140:12
Jeremiah 1:16
Deuteronomy 10:18
Once you have completed this study and discussed your findings, listen to Part 2 of today’s sermon on Isaiah 42:1-9 here:Sermon Audio Recording
Sermon Discussion Questions for After Sermon Part 2 on Isaiah 42:1-9
What was something you learned about kingdom justice? Explain.
God says in Isaiah 42:9
See, the former things have taken place,
and new things I declare;
before they spring into being
I announce them to you.”
One commentator pointed out that when God says He is doing a new thing, it will always be consistent with all He has done in the past and what He has promised for the future. How does this quote apply to the topic of kingdom justice? (Hint: Look again at Deut. 27:19, Deut. 30:16 and then read Matthew 25:31-40.)
“The world is attracted by embodied compassion and righteousness.” Who comes to mind as you think about people who have modeled being servants of kingdom justice?
As you want to grow in being servants of justice, read over this list and share your thoughts, or additional ideas, on these suggestions:
Intercede-spend time in prayer asking God to break off selfishness and any cultural or thought process that doesn’t align with His kingdom justice. Ask God to help you love people more.
Get Informed-notice people and their needs. Ask questions. Learn more about immigration reform, anti racism training, or health care reform.
Get Involved-consider a gift to our benevolence fund. Be advocates. Be active in ways the Lord would direct you, for His glory and the good of those who are weak, hurting and marginalized, as you joyfully follow in the steps of Jesus.
Isaiah 42:3 says “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.” What do these images symbolize and what does this show about the character of God’s servant?
Who do you know, or know about, who might be considered poor, broken, bruised, burned out, struggling, weak, or oppressed right now? Take turns sharing the person or situation that comes to mind (or journal if doing this study alone) and then close your time in prayer, asking God how you might serve.
Song of Response:
The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly.
God of Justice
God of Justice, Saviour to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Came to serve and not be served
And Jesus, You have called us
Freely we’ve received now freely we will give
We must go, live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken, we must go
Stepping forward keep us from just singing
Move us into action, we must go
Fill us up, send us out
To act justly everyday
Loving mercy in every way
Walking humbly before You God
You have shown us what You require
Freely we’ve received now freely we will give
We must go, live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken, we must go
Stepping forward keep us from just singing
Move us into action, we must go
Fill us up, send us out
Fill us up, send us out
Fill us up, send us out Lord
Fill us up, send us out
Fill us up, send us out
Fill us up, send us out Lord
Fill us up, send us out
Fill us up, send us out
Fill us up, send us out Lord
Fill us up, send us out
Fill us up, send us out
Fill us up, send us out Lord
To act justly, loving mercy
We must go, we must go
To the broken and the hurting
We must go, we must go
We must go, live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken, we must go
Stepping forward keep us from just singing
Move us into action, we must go
Fill us up, send us out
The Lord’s Blessing:
The Lord’s Greeting serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.
Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:
From Numbers 6:24-26:
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Closing Song: While there is a link for this song, try to sing it acapella (without any music, just your voices). Let’s embrace the slowing down and simplicity of lifting our voices to the Lord.
My Friends May you Grow in Grace
My friends, may you grow in grace,
and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior.
My friends, may you grow in grace,
and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
To God be the glory, now and forever,
now and forever, amen.
To God be the glory, now and forever,
now and forever, amen.
Response and Reflection:
Children’s Worship Lesson:
This week the lesson is: God Saves, Part 2! Enjoy going through the lesson with your family, and while you’re at it, please take some pictures of your family participating in Children’s Worship and share them with us! You can post them to the Gold Avenue Church Facebook page or by email at goldavechurch@gmail.com
00Gold Avenue Churchhttp://goldavenuechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/GAC-Logo-V5-nbmod-300x300-1.pngGold Avenue Church2020-03-28 17:01:092020-03-28 17:01:09Gold Avenue Church At Home Worship Liturgy 3/29
Here we are again, ready to worship with you and your children… in your own home! What a gift the Lord has given us that we have technology that enables us to continue to learn and worship together!
OVERVIEW:
Activity One: Watch the video. The lesson today is “God Saves, Part 2, The Story of Esther.” The Sterenberg family has prepared a video for this lesson. It’ll be fun to see some familiar faces again!
Activity Two: Discuss the story using provided questions as prompts
Activity Three: Respond to the story by doing an art project. Pray together.
Worship: Sing
Activity Four: Bless your children
EQUIP:
(It’s not an activity, but just a little background on the story for you, the parent, to read.)
There are many details that make the book of Esther a triumphant story. None is as amazing as the way God wove every event together to bring about His plan. As you read through this narrative, you will notice the name of God is not mentioned once. However, His presence is strong.
At this time in The Big God Story, Judah was a territory of the Persian Empire and the people its subjects. Although King Cyrus, who preceded King Xerxes, had decreed the Jewish captives be allowed to return to their homeland, many chose to stay in Babylon. God’s people had become prosperous and held positions of influence, which made the thought of returning to the destroyed and desolate Jerusalem unappealing for many. After a falling-out between King Xerxes and Queen Vashti, the king commanded a search be made among all the young virgins (women of marrying age) of his empire for the woman who would take Vashti’s place as queen. A young Jewish woman from Susa, named Esther, won his favor and was crowned queen. Esther continued to gain favor not only with the king, but also with everyone she met.
Haman, one of the king’s officials, devised a plan to annihilate all the Jewish people within the king’s territory. (At this time the Persian Empire stretched from India to modern-day Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Judah was in exile within the Persian territory. Because God’s promised Messiah was to come from the line of Judah, if they were at risk for being destroyed, so was The Promise.) Esther realized she needed to act so her people wouldn’t be destroyed and went bravely before the king, revealing Haman’s plan. God had gone before Esther, and the Jewish people were saved. God used Esther to help preserve His promised Savior within the line of Judah.
When have you cried out to God and seen Him save you? We see it all throughout the Bible: God’s people—Moses, Esther, David, Joshua, Jonah, and others—cried out to Him, and He saved them. Countless times the Israelites groaned in their slavery and repented of their sin, and God always came to their defense as their strong tower and Savior.
Take time this week to read Psalm 116 and meditate on its message. Write down what stands out to you in this passage. Note the words and phrases that remind you of God’s salvation. Write down situations in your life where you need God to show up and save you. He can, and He will.
Throughout the week, consider reading this chapter once a day to be reminded of these truths: God bends down to hear us; He is gracious and righteous. Because God has proved Himself as Savior, we can call on Him for as long as we live. He will continue to save.
Activity 1: STORY
(Optional Review)
Last week we learned about how God saved Jonah AND the people of Ninevah. When Jonah ran away from God rather than take a message to the evil people of Nineveh, he was thrown off a boat during a storm. God saved Jonah by sending a big fish to swallow him. Jonah decided to obey God and give God’s message of mercy to the Ninevites, and as a result, the Ninevites turned from their sin and God saved them from destruction. This week, we’ll see how God saves his people, the Jews, through a queen.
Watch Esther video:
Activity 2: DISCUSSION
Ask your child to imagine what it must have been like to be Esther, the queen! Talk about how God used Esther to save His people, the Jews.
I wonder … What would have happened if King Xerxes had chosen another woman to be the queen?
I wonder … What would have happened if Esther was too afraid to go see the king?
What did Esther ask the king to do?
How did the Jewish people feel when God saved them?
I wonder … How do I need God to save me?
These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God Saves into your everyday life as a family.
Activity 3: RESPONSE ACTIVITY
In today’s part of The Big God Story, God saved His people by putting a Jewish queen in the palace. As children respond today they will have the opportunity to thank God for saving them while creating a crown.
Supplies:
Paper plates
Crayons
Glue stick
Small buttons or pom poms or similar
Directions:
You want to use just a flimsy paper plate. Each child will need one.
Fold the paper plate in half.
There is absolutely no need to draw a dotted line on your paper plate. I did it on mine as a helpful visual for you to see where you cut. Essentially, you cut it like a pizza.
You will need to open up the paper plate to make the final two cuts. You can cut while the paper plate is folded. Do not cut all the way through. Cut it up to the ruffle edge of the plate.
They can color the paper plate however they want to create the look of their crown.
To make the crown part stand up, the kids can just fold them up into place.
We added buttons to the final look, but this is completely optional.
Since we didn’t add a memory verse you may want to write “God Saves” on the crown.
Using the answers from the last discussion question above remind the children to remember how God saves us and them when they wear the crown.
Today’s Worship Songs:
Who You Say I Am: by Hillsong Kids
(If you enjoyed last week’s songs, here they are again):
SingHey Jonah, Jonahto the tune of Jesus Loves Me
Jonah, Jonah have you heard?
Said the Lord, go preach my Word.
Jonah said, “That’s not for me!”
Took a ship and fled to sea.
Chorus:
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
Hey Jonah, Jonah,
You should obey the Lord.
Though he thought he’d get away
Soon the ship began to sway
Jonah said, “It’s for my sin,
Pick me up and throw me in!”
Chorus
When it seemed that he would drown,
Came a fish and gulped him down,
Jonah said, “Lord, I’ll obey,
Tell the folks about your way!”
Chorus:
Lord, I’ll obey you.
Lord, I’ll obey you.
Lord, I’ll obey you.
I will obey the Lord.
This Little Light of Mine by Listener Kids:
Activity 4: CLOSING BLESSING
A blessing to pray over your child(ren):
“May you remember that God has the power to save you.”
Pray with your kids, asking them if they have any prayer requests and encouraging them to pray for others. Have a blessed week!
Have you found yourself wondering what God might be up to in this unique season? Check out these thoughts from Pastor Dave, who is safely home from his trip to Israel! Thanks be to God!
Reflection Questions:
Take some time to press in to invitation you’ve just received. Spend some time praying, waiting on the Lord, and even journaling through these questions:
http://goldavenuechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/GAC-Logo-V5-nbmod-300x300-1.png00Gold Avenue Churchhttp://goldavenuechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/GAC-Logo-V5-nbmod-300x300-1.pngGold Avenue Church2020-03-27 09:03:382020-03-27 09:03:38Purpose in this Season: An Update and Encouragement from Pastor Dave
These days, we have an awesome opportunity to participate with the elements of a Sunday Morning within our homes by using the At Home Liturgy. There has been so many encouraging messages and connections that have been made because of this resource! At Home Children’s Worship had a kick off this week!
Pictured here: Derek Sterenberg and the Sterenberg children: Asher, Eila, and Brielle. The lesson: God gave Jonah a special message for the people of Nineveh so they could choose to trust and obey Him. When we trust and obey Jesus, we become a part of God’s family and we belong to Him too. God will always be with us. We’re His chosen children! Pictured below are some of the Asher and Eila’s creations as they reflected on being Chosen.
Communion:
Gold Avenue Church is still planning to have Communion on the first Sunday of the month. With that in mind, please plan to have bread and juice at your home for the April 5 At Home Liturgy!
CARE
Discipleship:
The Gold Avenue Church Discipleship Team would like to invite you to connect with the team (and together) as you continue in the Lent Readings that were provided at the beginning of Lent. Follow the link to the GAC Lenten Calendar 2020 and Lenten Invitation (ways to engage with the readings). A Zoom meeting will be hosted by the Discipleship Team from 10-10:45AM on Saturday morning! At meeting time, locate this blog post and click on the zoom link to join the meeting on your phone or computer.
From the Care Elders:
We want to pray for you!
You may have noticed on Facebook that Pastor Jaleesa and the Care Elder team have continued to meet weekly via Zoom in order to pray for our Gold Avenue Church family.
Throughout their times of prayer, the Lord has continued to remind them through his word of his steadfast goodness, protection, and faithfulness to us in this season.
If you have specific prayer requests, the team would love to pray for you! Make sure you add your request to the Sharing in Prayer Google doc so that we can all be in prayer for one another together!
If you would like to chat with or pray with Pastor Jaleesa or a Care elder, please do send an email to pastorjaleesa.gold@gmail.com.
PRAYER
Noon Prayer:
Every Wednesday from 12-1pm, upwards of 10 Gold Avenue Church congregants and leaders join together to pray as the Lord leads for our church, neighborhood, and the world. All are welcome to join in for this Zoom call. It is a blessing to get to join in prayer together! Consider joining next week!
EQUIPPING
Have you found yourself wondering what God might be up to in this unique season? Check out these thoughts from Pastor Dave, who is safely home from his trip to Israel! Thanks be to God!
The Call to Worship serves to focus our attention on the living God who is present with us; it calls us to position ourselves as those who are ready to worship and ready to receive from Him. Read the following out loud as you fix your eyes on Jesus:
From Isaiah 43:1-3a:
But now, this is what the Lord says—
he who created you, Jacob,
he who formed you, Israel:
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the Lord your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
Pray for the Lord to fill you, your household, and your home with his presence and his peace. Invite his presence afresh and take time to express your gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord as you feel led.
Worshiping in Song:
You can access the video of each song by clicking on the title. Participate freely and fully: sing along, dance, kneel, listen and soak, read the included lyrics–however you feel led. You may find it fruitful to listen to a song more than once, to respond between songs with prayer, thanksgiving, meditation, or even discussion about how the Lord is at work in and through the song.
Turn Your Eyes
VERSE 1
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace
VERSE 2
Turn your eyes to the hillside
Where justice and mercy embraced
There the Son of God gave His life for us
And our measureless debt was erased
CHORUS
Jesus, to You we lift our eyes
Jesus, our glory and our prize
We adore You, behold You, our Savior ever true
Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to You
VERSE 3
Turn your eyes to the morning
And see Christ the Lion awake
What a glorious dawn, fear of death is gone
For we carry His life in our veins
VERSE 4
Turn your eyes to the heavens
Our King will return for His own
Every knee will bow, every tongue will shout,
‘All glory to Jesus alone!’
The Lord’s Greeting:
The Lord’s Greeting serves to remind us that we are in the presence of the living God. It makes space for him to greet us as our loving heavenly father who rules and reigns as the King over all. Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:
From 2 John 1:3:
Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.
Greeting One Another:
It might feel a little odd doing this at home, but take time to say these words to greet each other, as you shake hands, hug or elbow bump:
“The peace of the Lord be with you.” (Or if alone, say aloud: The peace of the Lord be with me.”)
Raise a Hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah, in the presence of my enemies
I raise a hallelujah, louder than the unbelief
I raise a hallelujah, my weapon is a melody
I raise a hallelujah, Heaven comes to fight for me
I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive!
I raise a hallelujah, with everything inside of me
I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the darkness flee
I raise a hallelujah, in the middle of the mystery
I raise a hallelujah, fear you lost your hold on me!
I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive!
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (Sing a little louder)
Let’s sing a little louder (Let’s sing a little louder)
Sing a little louder (In the presence of my enemies)
Sing a little louder (Louder than the unbelief)
Sing a little louder (My weapon is a melody)
Sing a little louder (Heaven comes to fight for me)
Sing a little louder (In the presence of my enemies)
Sing a little louder (Louder than the unbelief)
Sing a little louder (My weapon is a melody)
Let’s sing a little louder (Heaven comes to fight for me)
Sing a little louder!!
I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive!
Oh, I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is alive!
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah!
Just begin to raise your own hallelujah
I can’t do it for you
There’s a song written on your heart only you can sing
And when you sing enemies flee
When you sing prison walls come falling down
When you sing Heaven invades the earth
So just begin to lift up your hallelujah
Raise it like a banner
Raise it like a flag
Raise it in the middle of the storm
Let it rise, let it rise
Like a symphony to the King
Everything to You, Jesus
We raise it all
Sing a little louder!!
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah
I raise a hallelujah (In the presence of my enemies)
I raise a hallelujah (Louder than the unbelief)
I raise a hallelujah (My weapon is a melody)
I raise a hallelujah (Heaven comes to fight for me)
Lion and the Lamb
He’s coming on the clouds, kings and kingdoms will bow down
And every chain will break, as broken hearts declare His praise
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah
He’s roaring with power and fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before You
Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain
For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Oh every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
So open up the gates, make way before the King of kings
Our God who calls the saved is here to set the captives free
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah
He’s roaring with power and fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before You
Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain
For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Oh every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Oh who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Oh who can stop the Lord Almighty?
Who can stop the Lord?
Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah
He’s roaring with power and fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before You
Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain
For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Oh every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Great Are You Lord
You give life, You are love
You bring light to the darkness
You give hope, You restore
Every heart that is broken
Great are You, Lord
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise to You only
You give life, You are love
You bring light to the darkness
You give hope, You restore
Every heart that is broken
Great are You, Lord
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise to You only
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise to You only
And all the earth will shout Your praise
Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing
Great are You, Lord
And all the earth will shout Your praise
Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing
Great are You, Lord
And all the earth will shout Your praise
Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing
Great are You, Lord
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
To You only
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
We pour out our praise
It’s Your breath in our lungs
So we pour out our praise
To You only
Testimony/Family Prayer Time:
As you transition, take a moment to reflect on how the Lord was ministering to you through song: what lyrics stood out to you? What emotions were you experiencing? What did God reveal to you about who he is? What did God reveal to you about what he says about you? How else were you ministered to?
Share a story with those around you or to the Lord about how he was at work in worship as well as in your week. Give him glory for his goodness. If alone, you could write down your testimony.
For Family Prayer Time: Please utilize and add to this prayer guide and also take time to pray–giving thanks, repenting, raising petition, and praying as the Lord leads.
Song of Preparation:
The Song of Preparation serves to prepare our hearts to receive the Word of the Lord. This song time also serves to give us an opportunity to worship through giving. We’re invited to give back as the Lord has so richly given to us.
Ways to give:
TEXT– send amount to (616) 319-2259, for more options see this link
Mail a check payable to Gold Avenue Church and send to: 49 Gold Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504
As you feel led, surrender your attention, your will, and your heart to the Lord and ask him to anoint your ears to hear the message and to bless you to receive and apply it.
God of this City
You’re the God of this city
You’re the King of these people
You’re the Lord of this nation
You are
You’re the light in this darkness
You’re the hope to the hopeless
You’re the peace to the restless
You are
There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
You’re the God of this city
You’re the King of these people
You’re the Lord of this nation
You are
You’re the light in this darkness
You’re the hope to the hopeless
You’re the peace to the restless
You are
There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done here
There is no one like our God
There is no one like you, God
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done
We believe, we believe in you, God
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this city
The Song of Response serves to make space for us to respond to the message the Lord has given. Feel free to take a moment to ask the Lord how he might be inviting you to respond and follow accordingly.
The Heart of Worship
[Verse 1]
When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that’s of worth
That will bless Your heart
[Pre-Chorus]
I’ll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You’re looking into my heart
[Chorus]
I’m coming back to the heart of worship
And it’s all about You, it’s all about You, Jesus
I’m sorry, Lord, for the thing I’ve made it
When it’s all about You, it’s all about You, Jesus
[Verse 2]
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much you deserve
Though I’m weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath!
The Lord’s Blessing:
The Lord’s Greeting serves to make space for us to receive the Lord’s blessing to equip and empower us to receive his word, to be obedient to it, and to walk it out in his grace and favor.
Fix your eyes on him as you read the following out loud:
From Numbers 6:24-26:
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Closing Song: While there is a link for this song, try to sing it acapella (without any music, just your voices). Let’s embrace the slowing down and simplicity of lifting our voices to the Lord.
Doxology
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBBnOJpclMQ
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!
Amen
Response and Reflection:
According to Isaiah, why is the Lord upset with his people?
Reread Isaiah 58:1-4; ask the Lord if he has anything he has to say to you about the ways that you approach, worship, and relate to him. If any conviction bubbles up, take some time to confess, repent, and rejoice! Our God corrects because he loves us and knows what’s best.
*Check out the prayer of repentance below to get you started
According to Isaiah, what is God asking of his people?
Reread Isaiah 58: 6-7; ask the Lord if he has anything he has to say to you about what he’s asking of you. If anything bubbles up, share it or journal about it… capture it so that you can come back to it and respond to it.
According to Isaiah, what will happen if God’s people share his heart of justice?
Reread Isaiah 58:8-14; what does this passage tell us about God’s character or personality? What does this passage tell us about how God views us as his people?
As you think about current events, how does today’s scripture bring you comfort and hope?
How might the Lord be inviting you to share his heart of justice today and this week in your own life, within your family, your neighborhood, and the world?
*Check out the practical ways to respond list below and share a comment on our Facebook post of any ideas that you may have!
Close your time of discussion in prayer, asking God to help you share his heart for you and for the world. Ask God to help you live for Him this week in everything you do, even if you are staying home.
Resources:
Sample Prayer of Confession:
“Eternal God, our judge and redeemer,
we confess that we have tried to hide from you,
for we have done wrong.
We have lived for ourselves
and apart from you.
We have turned from our neighbors
and refused to bear the burdens of others.
We have ignored the pain of the world
and passed by the hungry, the poor, and the oppressed.
Here is a list (click here) of organizations that are finding ways to serve our community in the midst of COVID-19. If you are in need of services, please don’t hesitate to utilize these options and also to contact our Gold Avenue Church deacons to see how we can serve you well.
Coming out this week’s sermon, this list also offers us the opportunity to consider how we might be God’s practical hand of justice in our community right now! We invite and encourage you to pray for all medical personnel, first responders and others who are still faithfully working, to pray for these organizations and their volunteers, and to pray for all who stand in need of care or services.
Please also prayerfully consider how you might partner with our church deacons and these services through prayer, donation, or whatever other means they may request.
Children’s Worship Lesson
Dear Parents,
It goes without saying that we are living in some crazy times right now! But, we are deeply grateful to know that we serve a God who knew this is exactly how today would look for each of us before time even began! We can trust He is doing a good work, even when we can’t see what it is, and we want to support you as you teach your children to also trust Him. We’ve put together a lesson for you (click here) to use as a family sometime this week!
00Gold Avenue Churchhttp://goldavenuechurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/GAC-Logo-V5-nbmod-300x300-1.pngGold Avenue Church2020-03-21 18:52:252020-03-21 18:52:25Gold Avenue Church At Home Worship Liturgy 3/22
…Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty. Haggai 2:4
When we heard these words that Pastor Dave preached a few weeks ago, we heard that the people of Judah felt weak and had challenges coming up against them, and yet God was calling for them to take steps of faith to carry on the work of rebuilding the temple. I’m guessing most of us have felt weak as we have faced the challenges of this past week, and yet God has been with us. He has met us in our disappointments and all our concerns, and has been strengthening us to carry on in His kingdom work, often supported by the prayers of others!
Thank you Gold Avenue Church family for being faithful and strong in the face of much uncertainty and engaging the work of embodying, proclaiming and advancing God’s Kingdom these last few weeks. You are using your gifts and faithfully serving despite our facility being closed:
You are checking in on one another by phone, text, FaceTime or messaging.
You are praying more often and with more fervor for our neighborhood and the world, particularly praying for revival.
You are brave nurses and other front line services, along with Nick who remains on mission in Africa, carrying on serving others.
You are reaching out to your neighbors and sharing the hope of Jesus with strangers.
You are adapting to changed schedules and seeking to love your children and help them adjust to the many unsettling changes with school and social distancing (which can be so hard!)
A number of you are using your gifts of music, writing, and prophecy to encourage others by means of FaceBook posts.
Some have contacted us offering helpful resources to the church.
The discipleship team is creatively thinking of new ways to connect.
The Gold Rush team is preparing to resume youth group via Zoom.
The admin elders are prayerfully discerning the current situation while also considering how to love our church and neighborhood well with our facility in the future, as they consider a new ministry proposal.
The deacons continue to monitor and serve the needs of our church and community, even as they think ahead about needs that may be coming.
The care elders are doing a fantastic job of checking in with people and also praying faithfully for our congregation.
Our volunteer worship leaders are continuing to plan meaningful worship services using the new At Home Worship Liturgy, even blessing a church in the UK this past week!
There are many more stories that I could share, but I want to take a minute and ask you to thank the Lord along with me for the gift of our 3 urban missionaries: Mark, Stephanie and Pastor Jaleesa. They have put in several weeks of very long hours, using their gifts, skills and backgrounds, to help put technology and strategies in place, with help from Justin Blake, that will help our church remain a strongly connected community now, and will serve us so well long into the future. Their joyful servant leadership is a great model for us all, and so please consider how you might bless them with a word of thanks, a contribution to their fundraising efforts, and/or most certainly praying for them regularly.
In Haggai, the Lord repeatedly says “give careful thought to your ways.“ As I met online with a group of pastors this week from all around the country, we were encouraged to reflect on history. At times of great trouble and even past quarantine, God has brought forth amazing gifts-books, songs, prayers and stories of sacrificial love that have advanced God’s kingdom and served as inspiration for Christians through history (the disciples, Paul, Luther, the early church caring for the sick during the plague, Bonhoeffer, CS Lewis, Corrie tenBoom, etc…).
Church family and friends, I believe the Lord will gift you and will use us together in mighty ways if we will earnestly seek Him. This could be the church’s finest hour, if we will humble ourselves, pray, turn from any wicked ways and seek God’s face. As together we devote ourselves completely to the Lord, I believe we will see the gospel of Jesus Christ transform our lives, our neighborhood and the world. To God be the glory, now and forever, Amen!
This Coronavirus Resource Packet is a list of organizations that are finding ways to serve our community in the midst of COVID-19. If you are in need of services, please don’t hesitate to utilize these options and also to contact our Gold Avenue Church deacons to see how we can serve you well.
Coming out this week’s sermon, this list also offers us the opportunity to consider how we might be God’s practical hand of justice in our community right now! We invite and encourage you to pray for all medical personnel, first responders and others who are still faithfully working, to pray for these organizations and their volunteers, and to pray for all who stand in need of care or services.
Please also prayerfully consider how you might partner with our church deacons and these services through prayer, donation, or whatever other means they may request.
The Discipleship Team would like to invite you to connect with us as you continue in the Lent Readings that were provided at the beginning of Lent. Here is the GAC Lenten Calendar 2020 and Lenten Invitation (ways to engage with the readings). We will be hosting a Zoom meeting on Saturday morning to connect and discuss, more info on that below!
At this time in our reading through Matthew we are over halfway through our reading of Matthew. The Bible Project is an online resource that is a helpful tool when used alongside Scripture readings. Please watch the following video on Matthew Chapters 1-13.
We would like to host some face to face time with anyone who can join us! We will meet to discuss the video and the readings that correlate on Saturday, March 28, from 10-10:45 am on a Zoom call.
Please plan to watch the video ahead of our meeting time and think through the following questions. A good discipline to engage in is journaling. Try journaling your answers as you read and watch the video. We hope to see you Saturday morning!
Discussion Questions:
Think about 2 or 3 things that stuck out to you in the video.
What do you notice about humanity and God’s Kingdom?
Additional Questions to Ponder and Apply (Not required for discussion):
What are some practical ways to apply the Word of God to your life?
How did the Lent readings of these same chapters help you grow in your relationship with God?
Zoom Call information for Saturday, March 28 at 10am:
Topic: Disicpleship Connection & Discussion Time: Mar 28, 2020 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
